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Clément G, Macaulay TR, Bollinger A, Weiss H, Wood SJ. Functional activities essential for space exploration performed in partial gravity during parabolic flight. NPJ Microgravity 2024; 10:86. [PMID: 39152140 PMCID: PMC11329648 DOI: 10.1038/s41526-024-00422-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2024] [Accepted: 07/28/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Test subjects were assessed in a partial gravity environment during parabolic flight while they performed mission-critical activities that challenged their balance and locomotion. These functional activities included rising from a seated position and walking, jumping down, recovering from falls, and maintaining an upright stance. Twelve volunteers were tested during 10 parabolas that produced 0.25×g, 0.5×g, or 0.75×g, and at 1×g during level flight intervals between parabolas. Additionally, 14 other subjects were tested using identical procedures in a 1×g laboratory setting. Partial gravity altered the performance of settling after standing and navigating around obstacles. As gravity levels decreased, the time required to stand up, settle, walk, and negotiate obstacles, and the number of falls increased. Information obtained from these tests will allow space agencies to assess the vestibular, sensorimotor, and cardiovascular risks associated with different levels of partial gravity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Hannah Weiss
- KBR, 2400 E NASA Parkway, Houston, TX, 77058, USA
| | - Scott J Wood
- Neuroscience Laboratory, NASA Johnson Space Center, 2200 E NASA Parkway, Houston, TX, 77058, USA
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Rock CG, Kwak ST, Luo A, Yang X, Yun K, Chang YH. Realizing the gravity of the simulation: adaptation to simulated hypogravity leads to altered predictive control. Front Physiol 2024; 15:1397016. [PMID: 38854629 PMCID: PMC11157081 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2024.1397016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024] Open
Abstract
Accurate predictive abilities are important for a wide variety of animal behaviors. Inherent to many of these predictions is an understanding of the physics that underlie the behavior. Humans are specifically attuned to the physics on Earth but can learn to move in other environments (e.g., the surface of the Moon). However, the adjustments made to their physics-based predictions in the face of altered gravity are not fully understood. The current study aimed to characterize the locomotor adaptation to a novel paradigm for simulated reduced gravity. We hypothesized that exposure to simulated hypogravity would result in updated predictions of gravity-based movement. Twenty participants took part in a protocol that had them perform vertically targeted countermovement jumps before (PRE), during, and after (POST) a physical simulation of hypogravity. Jumping in simulated hypogravity had different neuromechanics from the PRE condition, with reduced ground impulses (p ≤ .009) and muscle activity prior to the time of landing (i.e., preactivation; p ≤ .016). In the 1 g POST condition, muscle preactivation remained reduced (p ≤ .033) and was delayed (p ≤ .008) by up to 33% for most muscles of the triceps surae, reflecting an expectation of hypogravity. The aftereffects in muscle preactivation, along with little-to-no change in muscle dynamics during ground contact, point to a neuromechanical adaptation that affects predictive, feed-forward systems over feedback systems. As such, we conclude that the neural representation, or internal model, of gravity is updated after exposure to simulated hypogravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chase G. Rock
- Comparative Neuromechanics Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | | | | | | | | | - Young-Hui Chang
- Comparative Neuromechanics Laboratory, School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA, United States
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Fazzari C, Macchi R, Kunimasa Y, Ressam C, Casanova R, Chavet P, Nicol C. Muscle synergies inherent in simulated hypogravity running reveal flexible but not unconstrained locomotor control. Sci Rep 2024; 14:2707. [PMID: 38302569 PMCID: PMC10834966 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-50076-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 02/03/2024] Open
Abstract
With human space exploration back in the spotlight, recent studies have investigated the neuromuscular adjustments to simulated hypogravity running. They have examined the activity of individual muscles, whereas the central nervous system may rather activate groups of functionally related muscles, known as muscle synergies. To understand how locomotor control adjusts to simulated hypogravity, we examined the temporal (motor primitives) and spatial (motor modules) components of muscle synergies in participants running sequentially at 100%, 60%, and 100% body weight on a treadmill. Our results highlighted the paradoxical nature of simulated hypogravity running: The reduced mechanical constraints allowed for a more flexible locomotor control, which correlated with the degree of spatiotemporal adjustments. Yet, the increased temporal (shortened stance phase) and sensory (deteriorated proprioceptive feedback) constraints required wider motor primitives and a higher contribution of the hamstring muscles during the stance phase. These results are a first step towards improving astronaut training protocols.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robin Macchi
- Aix-Marseille Univ, CNRS, ISM, Marseille, France
- French Institute of Sport (INSEP), Laboratory Sport, Expertise and Performance (EA 7370), Paris, France
| | | | - Camélia Ressam
- NeuroSpin, UMR CEA/CNRS 9027, Paris-Saclay University, Gif-sur-Yvette, France
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Verdel D, Bastide S, Geffard F, Bruneau O, Vignais N, Berret B. Reoptimization of single-joint motor patterns to non-Earth gravity torques induced by a robotic exoskeleton. iScience 2023; 26:108350. [PMID: 38026148 PMCID: PMC10665922 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2023.108350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/29/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Gravity is a ubiquitous component of our environment that we have learned to optimally integrate in movement control. Yet, altered gravity conditions arise in numerous applications from space exploration to rehabilitation, thereby pressing the sensorimotor system to adapt. Here, we used a robotic exoskeleton to reproduce the elbow joint-level effects of arbitrary gravity fields ranging from 1g to -1g, passing through Mars- and Moon-like gravities, and tested whether humans can reoptimize their motor patterns accordingly. By comparing the motor patterns of actual arm movements with those predicted by an optimal control model, we show that our participants (N = 61 ) adapted optimally to each gravity-like torque. These findings suggest that the joint-level effects of a large range of gravities can be efficiently apprehended by humans, thus opening new perspectives in arm weight support training in manipulation tasks, whether it be for patients or astronauts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorian Verdel
- Université Paris-Saclay, CIAMS, 91405 Orsay, France
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Simon Bastide
- Université Paris-Saclay, CIAMS, 91405 Orsay, France
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, Orléans, France
| | | | - Olivier Bruneau
- LURPA, Mechanical Engineering Department, ENS Paris-Saclay, Université Paris-Saclay, 91190 Gif-sur-Yvette, France
| | - Nicolas Vignais
- Université Paris-Saclay, CIAMS, 91405 Orsay, France
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, Orléans, France
| | - Bastien Berret
- Université Paris-Saclay, CIAMS, 91405 Orsay, France
- CIAMS, Université d’Orléans, Orléans, France
- Institut Universitaire de France, Paris, France
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Naumova AA, Oleynik EA, Khramtsova AV, Nikolaeva SD, Chernigovskaya EV, Glazova MV. Short-term hindlimb unloading negatively affects dopaminergic transmission in the nigrostriatal system of mice. Dev Neurobiol 2023; 83:205-218. [PMID: 37489016 DOI: 10.1002/dneu.22924] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2023] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 07/13/2023] [Indexed: 07/26/2023]
Abstract
The nigrostriatal system composed of the dorsal striatum and the substantia nigra (SN) is highly involved in the control of motor behavior. Various extremal and pathological conditions as well as social isolation (SI) may cause an impairment of locomotor function; however, corresponding alterations in the nigrostriatal dopaminergic pathway are far from full understanding. Here, we analyzed the effect of 3-day hindlimb unloading (HU) and SI on the key players of dopamine transmission in the nigrostriatal system of CD1 mice. Three groups of mice were analyzed: group-housed (GH), SI, and HU animals. Our data showed a significant decrease in the expression and phosphorylation of tyrosine hydroxylase (TH) in the SN and dorsal striatum of HU mice that suggested attenuation of dopamine synthesis in response to HU. In the dorsal striatum of HU mice, the downregulation of TH expression was also observed indicating the effect of unloading; however, TH phosphorylation at Ser40 was mainly affected by SI pointing on an impact of isolation too. Expression of dopamine receptors D1 in the dorsal striatum of HU mice was increased suggesting a compensatory response, but the activity of downstream signaling pathways involving protein kinase A and cAMP response element-binding protein was inhibited. At the same time, SI alone did not affect expression of DA receptors and activity of downstream signaling in the dorsal striatum. Obtained data let us to conclude that HU was the main factor which impaired dopamine transmission in the nigrostriatal system but SI made some contribution to its negative effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra A Naumova
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Ekaterina A Oleynik
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Anna V Khramtsova
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Svetlana D Nikolaeva
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Elena V Chernigovskaya
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
| | - Margarita V Glazova
- Sechenov Institute of Evolutionary Physiology and Biochemistry of the Russian Academy of Sciences, St. Petersburg, Russia
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Khalid A, Prusty PP, Arshad I, Gustafson HE, Jalaly I, Nockels K, Bentley BL, Goel R, Ferrè ER. Pharmacological and non-pharmacological countermeasures to Space Motion Sickness: a systematic review. Front Neural Circuits 2023; 17:1150233. [PMID: 37396400 PMCID: PMC10311550 DOI: 10.3389/fncir.2023.1150233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Space Motion Sickness (SMS) is a syndrome that affects around 70% of astronauts and includes symptoms of nausea, dizziness, fatigue, vertigo, headaches, vomiting, and cold sweating. Consequences range from discomfort to severe sensorimotor and cognitive incapacitation, which might cause potential problems for mission-critical tasks and astronauts and cosmonauts' well-being. Both pharmacological and non-pharmacological countermeasures have been proposed to mitigate SMS. However, their effectiveness has not been systematically evaluated. Here we present the first systematic review of published peer-reviewed research on the effectiveness of pharmacological and non-pharmacological countermeasures to SMS. Methods We performed a double-blind title and abstract screening using the online Rayyan collaboration tool for systematic reviews, followed by a full-text screening. Eventually, only 23 peer-reviewed studies underwent data extraction. Results Both pharmacological and non-pharmacological countermeasures can help mitigate SMS symptoms. Discussion No definitive recommendation can be given regarding the superiority of any particular countermeasure approach. Importantly, there is considerable heterogeneity in the published research methods, lack of a standardized assessment approach, and small sample sizes. To allow for consistent comparisons between SMS countermeasures in the future, standardized testing protocols for spaceflight and ground-based analogs are needed. We believe that the data should be made openly available, given the uniqueness of the environment in which it is collected. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021244131.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akil Khalid
- Leicester Medical School, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Pragnya P. Prusty
- Department of Audio-Vestibular Sciences, Institute of Health Sciences, Bhubaneswar, India
| | - Iqra Arshad
- Department of Psychology, Royal Holloway University of London, Egham, United Kingdom
| | - Hannah E. Gustafson
- Department of Health and Human Performance, University of Houston, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Isra Jalaly
- University College London Medical School, London, United Kingdom
| | - Keith Nockels
- Library and Learning Services, University of Leicester, Leicester, United Kingdom
| | - Barry L. Bentley
- Cardiff School of Technologies, Cardiff Metropolitan University, Cardiff, United Kingdom
| | - Rahul Goel
- San Jose State University-NASA Ames Research Center, Moffett Field, CA, United States
| | - Elisa R. Ferrè
- Department of Psychological Sciences, Birkbeck University of London, London, United Kingdom
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Fazzari C, Macchi R, Ressam C, Kunimasa Y, Nicol C, Martha C, Bolmont B, Sainton P, Hays A, Vercruyssen F, Lapole T, Bossard M, Casanova R, Bringoux L, Chavet P. Neuromuscular adjustments to unweighted running: the increase in hamstring activity is sensitive to trait anxiety. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1212198. [PMID: 37334048 PMCID: PMC10272775 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1212198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/25/2023] [Accepted: 05/18/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Originally developed for astronauts, lower body positive pressure treadmills (LBPPTs) are increasingly being used in sports and clinical settings because they allow for unweighted running. However, the neuromuscular adjustments to unweighted running remain understudied. They would be limited for certain lower limb muscles and interindividually variable. This study investigated whether this might be related to familiarization and/or trait anxiety. Methods: Forty healthy male runners were divided into two equal groups with contrasting levels of trait anxiety (high, ANX+, n = 20 vs. low, ANX-, n = 20). They completed two 9-min runs on a LBPPT. Each included three consecutive 3-min conditions performed at 100%, 60% (unweighted running), and 100% body weight. Normal ground reaction force and electromyographic activity of 11 ipsilateral lower limb muscles were analyzed for the last 30 s of each condition in both runs. Results: Unweighted running showed muscle- and stretch-shortening cycle phase-dependent neuromuscular adjustments that were repeatable across both runs. Importantly, hamstring (BF, biceps femoris; STSM, semitendinosus/semimembranosus) muscle activity increased during the braking (BF: +44 ± 18%, p < 0.001) and push-off (BF: +49 ± 12% and STSM: +123 ± 14%, p < 0.001 for both) phases, and even more so for ANX+ than for ANX-. During the braking phase, only ANX+ showed significant increases in BF (+41 ± 15%, p < 0.001) and STSM (+53 ± 27%, p < 0.001) activities. During the push-off phase, ANX+ showed a more than twofold increase in STSM activity compared to ANX- (+119 ± 10% vs. +48 ± 27, p < 0.001 for both). Conclusion: The increase in hamstring activity during the braking and push-off phases may have accelerated the subsequent swing of the free-leg, likely counteracting the unweighting-induced slowing of stride frequency. This was even more pronounced in ANX+ than in ANX-, in an increased attempt not to deviate from their preferred running pattern. These results highlight the importance of individualizing LBPPT training and rehabilitation protocols, with particular attention to individuals with weak or injured hamstrings.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Robin Macchi
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, ISM, Marseille, France
- French Institute of Sport (INSEP), Laboratory Sport, Expertise and Performance (EA 7370), Paris, France
| | | | - Yoko Kunimasa
- Department of Health and Sport Sciences, Niigata University, Niigata, Japan
| | | | - Cécile Martha
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, ISM, Marseille, France
| | | | | | - Arnaud Hays
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, ISM, Marseille, France
| | | | - Thomas Lapole
- Université Jean Monnet, Université Savoie Mont-Blanc, LIBM, St-Etienne, France
| | - Martin Bossard
- Université Gustave Eiffel, COSYS-PICS-L, F-77454 Marne-la-Vallée, France
| | - Rémy Casanova
- Aix-Marseille Université, CNRS, ISM, Marseille, France
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De Martino E, Green DA, Ciampi de Andrade D, Weber T, Herssens N. Human movement in simulated hypogravity-Bridging the gap between space research and terrestrial rehabilitation. Front Neurol 2023; 14:1062349. [PMID: 36815001 PMCID: PMC9939477 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2023.1062349] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Human movement is optimized to Earth's gravity and based on highly complex interactions between sensory and neuro-muscular systems. Yet, humans are able to adapt-at least partially-to extreme environments upon and beyond Earth's surface. With upcoming Lunar Gateway and Artemis missions, it is crucial to increase our understanding of the impact of hypogravity-i.e., reduced vertical loading-on physiological and sensory-motor performances to improve countermeasure programs, and define crewmember's readiness to perform mission critical tasks. Several methodologies designed to reduce vertical loading are used to simulate hypogravity on Earth, including body weight support (BWS) devices. Countering gravity and offloading the human body is also used in various rehabilitation scenarios to improve motor recovery in neurological and orthopedic impairments. Thus, BWS-devices have the potential of advancing theory and practice of both space exploration and terrestrial rehabilitation by improving our understanding of physiological and sensory-motor adaptations to reduced vertical loading and sensory input. However, lack of standardization of BWS-related research protocols and reporting hinders the exchange of key findings and new advancements in both areas. The aim of this introduction paper is to review the role of BWS in understanding human movement in simulated hypogravity and the use of BWS in terrestrial rehabilitation, and to identify relevant research areas contributing to the optimization of human spaceflight and terrestrial rehabilitation. One of the main aims of this research topic is to facilitate standardization of hypogravity-related research protocols and outcome reporting, aimed at optimizing knowledge transfer between space research and BWS-related rehabilitation sciences.
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Affiliation(s)
- Enrico De Martino
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - David A. Green
- Space Medicine Team, European Astronaut Centre, Cologne, Germany,KBR GmbH, Cologne, Germany,Centre of Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Daniel Ciampi de Andrade
- Department of Health Science and Technology, Center for Neuroplasticity and Pain, Faculty of Medicine, Aalborg University, Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Tobias Weber
- Space Medicine Team, European Astronaut Centre, Cologne, Germany,KBR GmbH, Cologne, Germany
| | - Nolan Herssens
- Space Medicine Team, European Astronaut Centre, Cologne, Germany,*Correspondence: Nolan Herssens ✉
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Herssens N, Cowburn J, Albracht K, Braunstein B, Cazzola D, Colyer S, Minetti AE, Pavei G, Rittweger J, Weber T, Green DA. Movement in low gravity environments (MoLo) programme-The MoLo-L.O.O.P. study protocol. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0278051. [PMID: 36417480 PMCID: PMC9683620 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0278051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Exposure to prolonged periods in microgravity is associated with deconditioning of the musculoskeletal system due to chronic changes in mechanical stimulation. Given astronauts will operate on the Lunar surface for extended periods of time, it is critical to quantify both external (e.g., ground reaction forces) and internal (e.g., joint reaction forces) loads of relevant movements performed during Lunar missions. Such knowledge is key to predict musculoskeletal deconditioning and determine appropriate exercise countermeasures associated with extended exposure to hypogravity. OBJECTIVES The aim of this paper is to define an experimental protocol and methodology suitable to estimate in high-fidelity hypogravity conditions the lower limb internal joint reaction forces. State-of-the-art movement kinetics, kinematics, muscle activation and muscle-tendon unit behaviour during locomotor and plyometric movements will be collected and used as inputs (Objective 1), with musculoskeletal modelling and an optimisation framework used to estimate lower limb internal joint loading (Objective 2). METHODS Twenty-six healthy participants will be recruited for this cross-sectional study. Participants will walk, skip and run, at speeds ranging between 0.56-3.6 m/s, and perform plyometric movement trials at each gravity level (1, 0.7, 0.5, 0.38, 0.27 and 0.16g) in a randomized order. Through the collection of state-of-the-art kinetics, kinematics, muscle activation and muscle-tendon behaviour, a musculoskeletal modelling framework will be used to estimate lower limb joint reaction forces via tracking simulations. CONCLUSION The results of this study will provide first estimations of internal musculoskeletal loads associated with human movement performed in a range of hypogravity levels. Thus, our unique data will be a key step towards modelling the musculoskeletal deconditioning associated with long term habitation on the Lunar surface, and thereby aiding the design of Lunar exercise countermeasures and mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nolan Herssens
- Space Medicine Team, European Astronaut Centre, European Space Agency, Cologne, Germany
| | - James Cowburn
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- Centre for the Analysis of Motion, Entertainment Research and Applications, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Kirsten Albracht
- Centre for Health and Integrative Physiology in Space, German Sport University, Cologne, Germany
- Institute of Movement and Neuroscience, German Sport University, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Medical Engineering and Technomathematics, University of Applied Sciences Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Bjoern Braunstein
- Centre for Health and Integrative Physiology in Space, German Sport University, Cologne, Germany
- Institute of Movement and Neuroscience, German Sport University, Cologne, Germany
- Institute of Biomechanics and Orthopaedics, German Sport University, Cologne, Germany
- German Research Centre of Elite Sport Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Dario Cazzola
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- Centre for the Analysis of Motion, Entertainment Research and Applications, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Steffi Colyer
- Department for Health, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
- Centre for the Analysis of Motion, Entertainment Research and Applications, University of Bath, Bath, United Kingdom
| | - Alberto E. Minetti
- Laboratory of Physiomechanics of Locomotion, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Gaspare Pavei
- Laboratory of Physiomechanics of Locomotion, Department of Pathophysiology and Transplantation, University of Milan, Milan, Italy
| | - Jörn Rittweger
- Division of Muscle and Bone Metabolism, Institute of Aerospace Medicine DLR, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Tobias Weber
- Space Medicine Team, European Astronaut Centre, European Space Agency, Cologne, Germany
- KBR, Cologne, North Rhein-Westphalia, Germany
| | - David A. Green
- Space Medicine Team, European Astronaut Centre, European Space Agency, Cologne, Germany
- KBR, Cologne, North Rhein-Westphalia, Germany
- Centre of Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, King’s College London, London, United Kingdom
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Zhvansky DS, Sylos-Labini F, Dewolf A, Cappellini G, d’Avella A, Lacquaniti F, Ivanenko Y. Evaluation of Spatiotemporal Patterns of the Spinal Muscle Coordination Output during Walking in the Exoskeleton. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2022; 22:s22155708. [PMID: 35957264 PMCID: PMC9370895 DOI: 10.3390/s22155708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
Recent advances in the performance and evaluation of walking in exoskeletons use various assessments based on kinematic/kinetic measurements. While such variables provide general characteristics of gait performance, only limited conclusions can be made about the neural control strategies. Moreover, some kinematic or kinetic parameters are a consequence of the control implemented on the exoskeleton. Therefore, standard indicators based on kinematic variables have limitations and need to be complemented by performance measures of muscle coordination and control strategy. Knowledge about what happens at the spinal cord output level might also be critical for rehabilitation since an abnormal spatiotemporal integration of activity in specific spinal segments may result in a risk for abnormalities in gait recovery. Here we present the PEPATO software, which is a benchmarking solution to assess changes in the spinal locomotor output during walking in the exoskeleton with respect to reference data on normal walking. In particular, functional and structural changes at the spinal cord level can be mapped into muscle synergies and spinal maps of motoneuron activity. A user-friendly software interface guides the user through several data processing steps leading to a set of performance indicators as output. We present an example of the usage of this software for evaluating walking in an unloading exoskeleton that allows a person to step in simulated reduced (the Moon's) gravity. By analyzing the EMG activity from lower limb muscles, the algorithms detected several performance indicators demonstrating differential adaptation (shifts in the center of activity, prolonged activation) of specific muscle activation modules and spinal motor pools and increased coactivation of lumbar and sacral segments. The software is integrated at EUROBENCH facilities to benchmark the performance of walking in the exoskeleton from the point of view of changes in the spinal locomotor output.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dmitry S. Zhvansky
- Institute for Information Transmission Problems, Russian Academy of Sciences, 127994 Moscow, Russia;
| | - Francesca Sylos-Labini
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy; (F.S.-L.); (A.D.); (G.C.); (A.d.); (F.L.)
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Arthur Dewolf
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy; (F.S.-L.); (A.D.); (G.C.); (A.d.); (F.L.)
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Germana Cappellini
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy; (F.S.-L.); (A.D.); (G.C.); (A.d.); (F.L.)
- Department of Systems Medicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea d’Avella
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy; (F.S.-L.); (A.D.); (G.C.); (A.d.); (F.L.)
- Department of Biomedical and Dental Sciences and Morphofunctional Imaging, University of Messina, 98100 Messina, Italy
| | - Francesco Lacquaniti
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy; (F.S.-L.); (A.D.); (G.C.); (A.d.); (F.L.)
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, 00133 Rome, Italy
| | - Yury Ivanenko
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, 00179 Rome, Italy; (F.S.-L.); (A.D.); (G.C.); (A.d.); (F.L.)
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11
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Hagio S, Ishihara A, Terada M, Tanabe H, Kibushi B, Higashibata A, Yamada S, Furukawa S, Mukai C, Ishioka N, Kouzaki M. Muscle synergies of multi-directional postural control in astronauts on Earth after a long-term stay in space. J Neurophysiol 2022; 127:1230-1239. [PMID: 35353615 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00232.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Movements of the human biological system have adapted to the physical environment under the 1-g gravitational force on Earth. However, the effects of microgravity in space on the underlying functional neuromuscular control behaviors remain poorly understood. Here, we aimed to elucidate the effects of prolonged exposure to a microgravity environment on the functional coordination of multiple muscle activities. The activities of 16 lower limb muscles of 5 astronauts who stayed in space for at least 3 months were recorded while they maintained multidirectional postural control during bipedal standing. The coordinated activation patterns of groups of muscles, i.e., muscle synergies, were estimated from the muscle activation datasets using a factorization algorithm. The experiments were repeated a total of 5 times for each astronaut, once before and 4 times after spaceflight. The compositions of muscle synergies were altered, with a constant number of synergies, after long-term exposure to microgravity, and the extent of the changes was correlated with the severity of the deficits in postural stability. Furthermore, the muscle synergies extracted 3 months after the return were similar in their activation profile but not in their muscle composition compared with those extracted in the preflight condition. These results suggest that the modularity in the neuromuscular system became reorganized to adapt to the microgravity environment and then possibly reoptimized to the new sensorimotor environment after the astronauts were re-exposed to a gravitational force. It is expected that muscle synergies can be used as physiological markers of the status of astronauts with gravity-dependent change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Hagio
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Unit of Synergetic Studies for Space, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Akihiko Ishihara
- Laboratory of Cell Biology and Life Science, Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Masahiro Terada
- Unit of Synergetic Studies for Space, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
| | - Hiroko Tanabe
- Institutes of Innovation for Future Society, Nagoya University, Aichi, Japan
| | - Benio Kibushi
- Faculty of Sport Science, Waseda University, Saitama, Japan
| | - Akira Higashibata
- Human Spaceflight Technology Directorate, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Shin Yamada
- Graduate School of Medicine, Kyorin University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Satoshi Furukawa
- Human Spaceflight Technology Directorate, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Chiaki Mukai
- Human Spaceflight Technology Directorate, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Ibaraki, Japan
| | - Noriaki Ishioka
- Institute of Space and Astronautical Science, Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency, Kanagawa, Japan
| | - Motoki Kouzaki
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.,Unit of Synergetic Studies for Space, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan
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12
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Volkova T, Nicollier C, Gass V. An Empirical and Subjective Model of Upper Extremity Fatigue Under Hypogravity. Front Physiol 2022; 13:832214. [PMID: 35250635 PMCID: PMC8888417 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2022.832214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
In the context of extra-terrestrial missions, the effects of hypogravity (0 < G < 1) on the human body can reduce the well-being of the crew, cause musculoskeletal problems and affect their ability to perform tasks, especially during long-term missions. To date, studies of the effects of hypogravity on human movement are limited to experiments on the lower limbs. Here, we extend the knowledge base to the upper limbs, by conducting experiments to evaluate the effect of hypogravity on upper limb physical fatigue and mental workload in participants. Our hypothesis was that hypogravity would both increase participant productivity, by reducing overall physical fatigue expressed in Endurance Time, and reduce mental workload. Task Intensity-Endurance time curves are developed especially in seated positions, while performing static, dynamic, repetitive tasks. This experiment involved 32 healthy participants without chronic problems of the musculoskeletal system aged 33.59 ± 8.16 years. Using the collected data, fatigue models were constructed for tasks of varying Intensity. In addition, all participants completed the NASA – Task Load Index subjective mental workload assessment, which revealed the level of subjective workload when executing different tasks. We found two trends in the empirical fatigue models associated with the difference between the strength capabilities of males and females. The first is a significant positive (p = 0.002) relation between Endurance time and gravity level (⅙ G Moon, ⅓ G Mars, 1G) with negative coefficient for males and females for a static task. And there is marginal relation (p < 0.1) between overall mental workload and gravity level with a positive coefficient for males and females for the same task. The same trend was observed for dynamic and repetitive tasks. We concluded that the Task Intensity-Endurance Time model, adapted to hypogravity in combination with subjective mental assessment, is useful to human fatigue investigation. The combination of these methods used for ergonomic analysis and digital human modeling, could improve worker productivity. Finally, this study may help prepare astronauts for long-term missions on the Moon and Mars and improve our understanding of how we can prevent musculoskeletal disorders caused by hazardous manual handling under such extreme environments.
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13
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Guillon L, Kermorgant M, Charvolin T, Bonneville F, Bareille MP, Cassol E, Beck A, Beaurain M, Péran P, Lotterie JA, Traon APL, Payoux P. Reduced Regional Cerebral Blood Flow Measured by 99mTc-Hexamethyl Propylene Amine Oxime Single-Photon Emission Computed Tomography in Microgravity Simulated by 5-Day Dry Immersion. Front Physiol 2021; 12:789298. [PMID: 34880784 PMCID: PMC8645987 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2021.789298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2021] [Accepted: 10/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microgravity induces a cephalad fluid shift that is responsible for cephalic venous stasis that may increase intracranial pressure (ICP) in astronauts. However, the effects of microgravity on regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) are not known. We therefore investigated changes in rCBF in a 5-day dry immersion (DI) model. Moreover, we tested thigh cuffs as a countermeasure to prevent potential microgravity-induced modifications in rCBF. Around 18 healthy male participants underwent 5-day DI with or without a thigh cuffs countermeasure. They were randomly allocated to a control (n=9) or cuffs (n=9) group. rCBF was measured 4days before DI and at the end of the fifth day of DI (DI5), using single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) with radiopharmaceutical 99mTc-hexamethyl propylene amine oxime (99mTc-HMPAO). SPECT images were processed using statistical parametric mapping (SPM12) software. At DI5, we observed a significant decrease in rCBF in 32 cortical and subcortical regions, with greater hypoperfusion in basal ganglia (right putamen peak level: z=4.71, p uncorr<0.001), bilateral occipital regions (left superior occipital peak level: z=4.51, p uncorr<0.001), bilateral insula (right insula peak level: 4.10, p uncorr<0.001), and bilateral inferior temporal (right inferior temporal peak level: 4.07, p uncorr<0.001). No significant difference was found between the control and cuffs groups on change in rCBF after 5days of DI. After a 5-day DI, we found a decrease in rCBF in cortical and subcortical regions. However, thigh cuffs countermeasure failed to prevent hypoperfusion. To date, this is the first study measuring rCBF in DI. Further investigations are needed in order to better understand the underlying mechanisms in cerebral blood flow (CBF) changes after exposure to microgravity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Guillon
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Marc Kermorgant
- INSERM UMR 1297, Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases (I2MC), Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Thomas Charvolin
- Department of Neuroradiology, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Fabrice Bonneville
- Department of Neuroradiology, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
- INSERM URM 1214, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center (ToNIC), Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | | | - Emmanuelle Cassol
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Arnaud Beck
- Institute for Space Medicine and Physiology (MEDES), Toulouse, France
| | - Marie Beaurain
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Patrice Péran
- INSERM URM 1214, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center (ToNIC), Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Jean-Albert Lotterie
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
- INSERM URM 1214, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center (ToNIC), Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Anne Pavy-Le Traon
- INSERM UMR 1297, Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases (I2MC), Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
- Department of Neurology, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
| | - Pierre Payoux
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
- INSERM URM 1214, Toulouse NeuroImaging Center (ToNIC), Toulouse University Hospital, Toulouse, France
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14
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Gastrocnemius medialis contractile behavior during running differs between simulated Lunar and Martian gravities. Sci Rep 2021; 11:22555. [PMID: 34799596 PMCID: PMC8604970 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-00527-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The international partnership of space agencies has agreed to proceed forward to the Moon sustainably. Activities on the Lunar surface (0.16 g) will allow crewmembers to advance the exploration skills needed when expanding human presence to Mars (0.38 g). Whilst data from actual hypogravity activities are limited to the Apollo missions, simulation studies have indicated that ground reaction forces, mechanical work, muscle activation, and joint angles decrease with declining gravity level. However, these alterations in locomotion biomechanics do not necessarily scale to the gravity level, the reduction in gastrocnemius medialis activation even appears to level off around 0.2 g, while muscle activation pattern remains similar. Thus, it is difficult to predict whether gastrocnemius medialis contractile behavior during running on Moon will basically be the same as on Mars. Therefore, this study investigated lower limb joint kinematics and gastrocnemius medialis behavior during running at 1 g, simulated Martian gravity, and simulated Lunar gravity on the vertical treadmill facility. The results indicate that hypogravity-induced alterations in joint kinematics and contractile behavior still persist between simulated running on the Moon and Mars. This contrasts with the concept of a ceiling effect and should be carefully considered when evaluating exercise prescriptions and the transferability of locomotion practiced in Lunar gravity to Martian gravity.
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15
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Hagio S, Nakazato M, Kouzaki M. Modulation of spatial and temporal modules in lower limb muscle activations during walking with simulated reduced gravity. Sci Rep 2021; 11:14749. [PMID: 34285306 PMCID: PMC8292403 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-021-94201-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Gravity plays a crucial role in shaping patterned locomotor output to maintain dynamic stability during locomotion. The present study aimed to clarify the gravity-dependent regulation of modules that organize multiple muscle activities during walking in humans. Participants walked on a treadmill at seven speeds (1-6 km h-1 and a subject- and gravity-specific speed determined by the Froude number (Fr) corresponding to 0.25) while their body weight was partially supported by a lift to simulate walking with five levels of gravity conditions from 0.07 to 1 g. Modules, i.e., muscle-weighting vectors (spatial modules) and phase-dependent activation coefficients (temporal modules), were extracted from 12 lower-limb electromyographic (EMG) activities in each gravity (Fr ~ 0.25) using nonnegative matrix factorization. Additionally, a tensor decomposition model was fit to the EMG data to quantify variables depending on the gravity conditions and walking speed with prescribed spatial and temporal modules. The results demonstrated that muscle activity could be explained by four modules from 1 to 0.16 g and three modules at 0.07 g, and the modules were shared for both spatial and temporal components among the gravity conditions. The task-dependent variables of the modules acting on the supporting phase linearly decreased with decreasing gravity, whereas that of the module contributing to activation prior to foot contact showed nonlinear U-shaped modulation. Moreover, the profiles of the gravity-dependent modulation changed as a function of walking speed. In conclusion, reduced gravity walking was achieved by regulating the contribution of prescribed spatial and temporal coordination in muscle activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shota Hagio
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-nihonmatsu-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan.
- Unit of Synergetic Studies for Space, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8502, Japan.
| | - Makoto Nakazato
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-nihonmatsu-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
| | - Motoki Kouzaki
- Laboratory of Neurophysiology, Graduate School of Human and Environmental Studies, Kyoto University, Yoshida-nihonmatsu-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, 606-8501, Japan
- Unit of Synergetic Studies for Space, Kyoto University, Kyoto, 606-8502, Japan
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16
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Bravi M, Massaroni C, Santacaterina F, Di Tocco J, Schena E, Sterzi S, Bressi F, Miccinilli S. Validity Analysis of WalkerView TM Instrumented Treadmill for Measuring Spatiotemporal and Kinematic Gait Parameters. SENSORS 2021; 21:s21144795. [PMID: 34300534 PMCID: PMC8309770 DOI: 10.3390/s21144795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2021] [Revised: 06/25/2021] [Accepted: 07/09/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The detection of gait abnormalities is essential for professionals involved in the rehabilitation of walking disorders. Instrumented treadmills are spreading as an alternative to overground gait analysis. To date, the use of these instruments for recording kinematic gait parameters is still limited in clinical practice due to the lack of validation studies. This study aims to investigate the performance of a multi-sensor instrumented treadmill (i.e., WalkerViewTM, WV) for performing gait analysis. Seventeen participants performed a single gait test on the WV at three different speeds (i.e., 3 km/h, 5 km/h, and 6.6 km/h). In each trial, spatiotemporal and kinematic parameters were recorded simultaneously by the WV and by a motion capture system used as the reference. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) of spatiotemporal parameters showed fair to excellent agreement at the three walking speeds for steps time, cadence, and step length (range 0.502–0.996); weaker levels of agreement were found for stance and swing time at all the tested walking speeds. Bland–Altman analysis of spatiotemporal parameters showed a mean of difference (MOD) maximum value of 0.04 s for swing/stance time and WV underestimation of 2.16 cm for step length. As for kinematic variables, ICC showed fair to excellent agreement (ICC > 0.5) for total range of motion (ROM) of hip at 3 km/h (range 0.579–0.735); weaker levels of ICC were found at 5 km/h and 6.6 km/h (range 0.219–0.447). ICC values of total knee ROM showed poor levels of agreement at all the tested walking speeds. Bland–Altman analysis of hip ROM revealed a higher MOD value at higher speeds up to 3.91°; the MOD values of the knee ROM were always higher than 7.67° with a 60° mean value of ROM. We demonstrated that the WV is a valid tool for analyzing the spatiotemporal parameters of walking and assessing the hip’s total ROM. Knee total ROM and all kinematic peak values should be carefully evaluated, having shown lower levels of agreement.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Bravi
- Unit of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, via Alvaro Del Portillo 5, 00128 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (F.S.); (S.S.); (F.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Carlo Massaroni
- Unit of Measurements and Biomedical Instrumentation, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, via Alvaro Del Portillo 21, 00128 Rome, Italy; (J.D.T.); (E.S.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Fabio Santacaterina
- Unit of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, via Alvaro Del Portillo 5, 00128 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (F.S.); (S.S.); (F.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Joshua Di Tocco
- Unit of Measurements and Biomedical Instrumentation, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, via Alvaro Del Portillo 21, 00128 Rome, Italy; (J.D.T.); (E.S.)
| | - Emiliano Schena
- Unit of Measurements and Biomedical Instrumentation, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, via Alvaro Del Portillo 21, 00128 Rome, Italy; (J.D.T.); (E.S.)
| | - Silvia Sterzi
- Unit of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, via Alvaro Del Portillo 5, 00128 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (F.S.); (S.S.); (F.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Federica Bressi
- Unit of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, via Alvaro Del Portillo 5, 00128 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (F.S.); (S.S.); (F.B.); (S.M.)
| | - Sandra Miccinilli
- Unit of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Università Campus Bio-Medico di Roma, via Alvaro Del Portillo 5, 00128 Rome, Italy; (M.B.); (F.S.); (S.S.); (F.B.); (S.M.)
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George Thuruthel T, Picardi G, Iida F, Laschi C, Calisti M. Learning to stop: a unifying principle for legged locomotion in varying environments. ROYAL SOCIETY OPEN SCIENCE 2021; 8:210223. [PMID: 33996134 PMCID: PMC8059566 DOI: 10.1098/rsos.210223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2021] [Accepted: 03/18/2021] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Evolutionary studies have unequivocally proven the transition of living organisms from water to land. Consequently, it can be deduced that locomotion strategies must have evolved from one environment to the other. However, the mechanism by which this transition happened and its implications on bio-mechanical studies and robotics research have not been explored in detail. This paper presents a unifying control strategy for locomotion in varying environments based on the principle of 'learning to stop'. Using a common reinforcement learning framework, deep deterministic policy gradient, we show that our proposed learning strategy facilitates a fast and safe methodology for transferring learned controllers from the facile water environment to the harsh land environment. Our results not only propose a plausible mechanism for safe and quick transition of locomotion strategies from a water to land environment but also provide a novel alternative for safer and faster training of robots.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas George Thuruthel
- Bio-Inspired Robotics Laboratory, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - G. Picardi
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
| | - F. Iida
- Bio-Inspired Robotics Laboratory, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - C. Laschi
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - M. Calisti
- The BioRobotics Institute, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Department of Excellence in Robotics and AI, Scuola Superiore Sant’Anna, Pisa, Italy
- Lincoln Institute for Agri-food Technology, University of Lincoln, Lincoln, UK
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18
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Shpakov AV, Artamonov AA, Voronov AV, Plotnikov EV, Puchkova AA, Orlov DO. Human Locomotion Strategies Under Changed Bodyweight Support. Aerosp Med Hum Perform 2021; 92:4-10. [PMID: 33357266 DOI: 10.3357/amhp.5609.2021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: The aim of this study was the analysis of human musculoskeletal system energy costs of normal walking and walking under reduced weight loading.METHODS: There were 15 subjects who participated in the study. We analyzed the biomechanical parameters of walking under different musculoskeletal system loads. The subjects walked on a treadmill at a pace of 90 steps/min under various loading conditions: 1) 100% bodyweight loading, corresponding to the terrestrial surface; 2) 38% bodyweight loading, corresponding to the surface of Mars; and 3) 17% bodyweight loading, corresponding to the surface of the Moon. Joint angles and angular velocities were recorded from the hip, knee, and ankle.RESULTS: We analyzed changes in joint phase trajectories and the ratio of kinetic extension energy to kinetic flexion energy in the joints. We observed changes in kinetic energy parameters associated with both flexion and extension motions in the joints of the feet while walking under various loads. In terrestrial conditions (walking under 100% bodyweight), flexion kinetic energy in the hip joint prevailed over extension kinetic energy by 90%, with a small variation equal to 22%. If weight loading decreased up to 17% (lunar conditions), the difference between flexion and extension kinetic energies diminished, and eventually reached only 9%. The ratio of flexion energy and extension energy in the ankle joint equalized under lower loading conditions. Thus, 38% bodyweight loading was sufficient for approximation of flexion and extension energy values.DISCUSSION: Our results revealed that phase trajectories shifted toward smaller joint angles and a decreased ratio between extension kinetic energy and flexion kinetic energy in the knee joint of all subjects. However, significant differences in the ratio of flexion and extension kinetic energy in the knee joint under bodyweight support were not found. The methods used for musculoskeletal system assessments that were proposed in our work can be used in clinical practice to evaluate the effectiveness of rehabilitation measures in a patients musculoskeletal system disorders.Shpakov AV, Artamonov AA, Voronov AV, Plotnikov EV, Puchkova AA, Orlov DO. Human locomotion strategies under changed bodyweight support. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2021; 92(1):410.
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Maugeri G, D’Agata V, Roggio F, Cortis C, Fusco A, Foster C, Mañago MM, Harris-Love MO, Vleck V, Piacentini MF, Musumeci G. The "Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology" Journal Club Series: PhysioMechanics of Human Locomotion. J Funct Morphol Kinesiol 2020; 5:52. [PMID: 32935069 PMCID: PMC7489281 DOI: 10.3390/jfmk5030052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2020] [Accepted: 07/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
We are glad to introduce the Third Journal Club of Volume five, the third issue. This edition is focused on relevant studies published in the last years in the field of PhysioMechanics of Human Locomotion, chosen by our Editorial Board members and their colleagues. We hope to stimulate your curiosity in this field and to share with you the passion for the Sports Medicine and Movement Sciences seen also from the scientific point of view. The Editorial Board members wish you an inspiring lecture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grazia Maugeri
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences Section, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 87, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (V.D.); (F.R.)
| | - Velia D’Agata
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences Section, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 87, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (V.D.); (F.R.)
| | - Federico Roggio
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences Section, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 87, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (V.D.); (F.R.)
| | - Cristina Cortis
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Lazio Meridionale, 03043 Cassino, Italy; (C.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Andrea Fusco
- Department of Human Sciences, Society and Health, University of Cassino and Lazio Meridionale, 03043 Cassino, Italy; (C.C.); (A.F.)
| | - Carl Foster
- Department of Exercise and Sport Science, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, La Crosse, WI 54601, USA;
| | - Mark M. Mañago
- Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (M.M.M.); (M.O.H.-L.)
| | - Michael O. Harris-Love
- Physical Therapy Program, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA; (M.M.M.); (M.O.H.-L.)
- Geriatric Research, Education and Clinical Center, Rocky Mountain Regional Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Veronica Vleck
- CIPER, Faculdade de Motricidade Humana, University of Lisbon, 1499-002 Lisbon, Portugal;
| | - Maria Francesca Piacentini
- Department of Movement, Human and Health Sciences, University of Rome “Foro Italico”, 00135 Rome, Italy;
| | - Giuseppe Musumeci
- Department of Biomedical and Biotechnological Sciences, Anatomy, Histology and Movement Sciences Section, School of Medicine, University of Catania, Via S. Sofia 87, 95123 Catania, Italy; (G.M.); (V.D.); (F.R.)
- Research Center on Motor Activities (CRAM), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
- Department of Biology, Sbarro Institute for Cancer Research and Molecular Medicine, College of Science and Technology, Temple University, Philadelphia, PA 19122, USA
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20
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Dewolf AH, Sylos-Labini F, Cappellini G, Lacquaniti F, Ivanenko Y. Emergence of Different Gaits in Infancy: Relationship Between Developing Neural Circuitries and Changing Biomechanics. Front Bioeng Biotechnol 2020; 8:473. [PMID: 32509753 PMCID: PMC7248179 DOI: 10.3389/fbioe.2020.00473] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
How does gait-specific pattern generation evolve in early infancy? The idea that neural and biomechanical mechanisms underlying mature walking and running differ to some extent and involve distinct spinal and supraspinal neural circuits is supported by various studies. Here we consider the issue of human gaits from the developmental point of view, from neonate stepping to adult mature gaits. While differentiating features of the walk and run are clearly distinct in adults, the gradual and progressive developmental bifurcation between the different gaits suggests considerable sharing of circuitry. Gaits development and their biomechanical determinants also depend on maturation of the musculoskeletal system. This review outlines the possible overlap in the neural and biomechanical control of walking and running in infancy, supporting the idea that gaits may be built starting from common, likely phylogenetically conserved elements. Bridging connections between movement mechanics and neural control of locomotion could have profound clinical implications for technological solutions to understand better locomotor development and to diagnose early motor deficits. We also consider the neuromuscular maturation time frame of gaits resulting from active practice of locomotion, underlying plasticity of development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arthur Henri Dewolf
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Germana Cappellini
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy.,Department of Pediatric Neurorehabilitation, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesco Lacquaniti
- Department of Systems Medicine and Center of Space Biomedicine, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy.,Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Yury Ivanenko
- Laboratory of Neuromotor Physiology, IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
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Bannwart M, Rohland E, Easthope CA, Rauter G, Bolliger M. Robotic body weight support enables safe stair negotiation in compliance with basic locomotor principles. J Neuroeng Rehabil 2019; 16:157. [PMID: 31870393 PMCID: PMC6929285 DOI: 10.1186/s12984-019-0631-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 12/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND After a neurological injury, mobility focused rehabilitation programs intensively train walking on treadmills or overground. However, after discharge, quite a few patients are not able to independently negotiate stairs, a real-world task with high physical and psychological demands and a high injury risk. To decrease fall risk and improve patients' capacity to navigate typical environments, early stair negotiation training can help restore competence and confidence in safe stair negotiation. One way to enable early training in a safe and permissive environment is to unload the patient with a body weight support system. We here investigated if unloaded stair negotiation complies with basic locomotor principles, in terms of enabling performance of a physiological movement pattern with minimal compensation. METHODS Seventeen able-bodied participants were unloaded with 0-50% bodyweight during self-paced ascent and descent of a 4-tread staircase. Spatio-temporal parameters, joint ranges of motion, ground reaction forces and myoelectric activity in the main lower limb muscles of participants were compared between unloading levels. Likelihood ratio tests of separated linear mixed models of the investigated outcomes assessed if unloading affects the parameters in general. Subsequent post-hoc testing revealed which levels of unloading differed from unsupported stair negotiation. RESULTS Unloading affected walking velocity, joint ranges of motion, vertical ground reaction force parameters and myoelectric activity in all investigated muscles for stair ascent and descent while step width and single support duration were only affected during ascent. A reduction with increasing levels of body weight support was seen in walking velocity (0.07-0.12 m/s), ranges of motion of the knee and hip (2-10°), vertical ground reaction force peaks (10-70%) and myoelectric activity (17-70%). An increase with unloading was only seen during ascent for ankle range of motion and tibialis anterior activity at substantial unloading. CONCLUSIONS Body weight support facilitates stair negotiation by providing safety and support against gravity. Although unloading effects are present in most parameters, up to 30% body weight support these changes are small, and no dysfunctional patterns are introduced. Body weight support therefore fulfills all the necessary requirements for early stair negotiation training.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Bannwart
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Forchstrasse 340, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland
- Sensory Motor Systems Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - E. Rohland
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Forchstrasse 340, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - C. A. Easthope
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Forchstrasse 340, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland
- Cereneo Center for Interdisciplinary Research, Vitznau, Switzerland
| | - G. Rauter
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Forchstrasse 340, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland
- Sensory Motor Systems Lab, Department of Health Sciences and Technology, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Zurich, Switzerland
- BIROMED-Lab, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University Basel, Gewerbestrasse 14, CH-4123 Basel, Allschwil Switzerland
| | - M. Bolliger
- Spinal Cord Injury Center, Balgrist University Hospital, Forchstrasse 340, CH-8008 Zurich, Switzerland
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Lv G, Zhu H, Gregg RD. On the Design and Control of Highly Backdrivable Lower-Limb Exoskeletons: A Discussion of Past and Ongoing Work. IEEE CONTROL SYSTEMS 2018; 38:88-113. [PMID: 30598586 PMCID: PMC6309856 DOI: 10.1109/mcs.2018.2866605] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Ge Lv
- Departments of Electrical Engineering and Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, 75080,
USA
| | - Hanqi Zhu
- Departments of Electrical Engineering and Bioengineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, 75080,
USA
| | - Robert D. Gregg
- Departments of Bioengineering and Mechanical Engineering, University of Texas at Dallas, Richardson, TX, 75080,
USA
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Mackaill C, Sponchiado G, Leite AK, Dias P, Da Rosa M, Brown EJ, de Lima JCM, Rehnberg L, Russomano T. A new method for the performance of external chest compressions during hypogravity simulation. LIFE SCIENCES IN SPACE RESEARCH 2018; 18:72-79. [PMID: 30100150 DOI: 10.1016/j.lssr.2018.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2018] [Revised: 05/22/2018] [Accepted: 06/27/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION 2015 UK resuscitation guidelines aim for 50-60 mm depth when giving external chest compressions (ECCs). This is achievable in hypogravity if the rescuer flexes and extends their arms during CPR, or using a new method trialed; the 'Mackaill-Russomano' (MR CPR) method. METHODS 10 participants performed 3 sets of 30 ECCs in accordance with 2015 guidelines. A control was used at 1Gz, with eight further conditions using Mars and Moon simulations, with and without braces in the terrestrial position and using the MR CPR method. The MR CPR method involved straddling the mannequin, using its legs for stabilization. A body suspension device, with counterweights, simulated hypogravity environments. ECC depth, rate, angle of arm flexion and heart rate (HR) were measured. RESULTS Participants completed all conditions, and ECC rate was achieved throughout. Mean (± SD) ECC depth using the MR CPR method at 0.38Gz was 54.1 ± 0.55 mm with braces; 50.5 ± 1.7 mm without. ECCs were below 50 mm at 0.17Gz using the MR CPR method (47.5 ± 1.47 mm with braces; 47.4 ± 0.87 mm without). In the terrestrial position, ECCs were more effective without braces (49.4 ± 0.26 mm at 0.38Gz; 43.9 ± 0.87 mm at 0.17Gz) than with braces (48.5 ± 0.28 mm at 0.38Gz; 42.4 ± 0.3 mm at 0.17Gz). Flexion increased from approximately 2° - 8° with and without braces respectively. HR did not change significantly from control. DISCUSSION 2015 guidelines were achieved using the MR CPR method at 0.38Gz, with no significant difference with and without braces. Participants were closer to achieving the required ECC depth in the terrestrial position without braces. ECC depth was not achieved at 0.17Gz, due to a greater reduction in effective body weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina Mackaill
- School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, Scotland, United Kingdom.
| | | | - Ana K Leite
- Microgravity Centre, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | - Paola Dias
- Microgravity Centre, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Brazil
| | | | - Elliot J Brown
- College of Medical and Dental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Julio C M de Lima
- School of Engineering, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
| | - Lucas Rehnberg
- Microgravity Centre, PUCRS, Porto Alegre, Brazil; InnovaSpace, London, UK
| | - Thais Russomano
- Centre for Human and Applied Physiological Sciences, School of Basic and Medical Biosciences, Faculty of Life Sciences & Medicine, King's College London, UK; InnovaSpace, London, UK
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